Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Mastiff Dog, 1816, Lithograph

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Antique English Mastiff Dog Lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, 1816 This striking early 19th-century hand-colored lithograph titled “Die Englische Dogge” … Read more Antique English Mastiff Dog Lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, 1816 This striking early 19th-century hand-colored lithograph titled “Die Englische Dogge” (“The English Mastiff”) was created by the celebrated Swiss natural history artist Karl Joseph Brodtmann in 1816. The print depicts a powerful English mastiff or bulldog-type dog in profile, rendered with remarkable anatomical precision and expressive character. The animal’s muscular stance, cropped ears, and studded collar reflect the era’s fascination with strong working and guard dogs, while the elegant Latin caption “Canis Familiaris Anglicus” adds a scientific dimension typical of early zoological illustration. Brodtmann was among the foremost lithographic animal illustrators of the early 19th century and is especially admired for his pioneering use of lithography in natural history publishing. His works combined scientific observation with artistic refinement, making them highly sought after by collectors of canine art, sporting prints, and early lithographic works. Prints such as this were often issued in finely produced natural history portfolios and were intended for educated collectors and gentlemen’s libraries during the Romantic period. The lithograph is beautifully hand-colored in warm brown and ochre tones, with delicate shading that gives the dog a lifelike presence. The composition is simple yet highly effective, placing the animal against a minimal landscape background to emphasize its powerful form and noble posture. The calligraphic titling at the bottom adds elegance and balance to the sheet. Early dog portraits from this period are increasingly desirable among collectors of canine memorabilia, veterinary history, sporting art, and Regency-era decorative prints. This example also works exceptionally well as wall decoration in traditional interiors, country houses, libraries, or modern eclectic spaces. The restrained palette and strong profile composition make it especially suitable for framing either individually or as part of a gallery wall of natural history or animal prints. The print is an original antique lithograph from 1816, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The piece is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale with the original. Condition report: Good antique condition with age-related toning and minor wear to the margins. Original hand coloring remains attractive and fresh. Minor handling marks and light foxing consistent with age. Small piece of tape remaining on the edge of the print, not near the image. Framing tips: This lithograph displays beautifully in dark walnut, black lacquer, or lightly gilt frames paired with a wide ivory or oatmeal mat. Its warm coloration and refined zoological subject make it particularly suitable for libraries, studies, country interiors, gentleman’s clubs, or sophisticated gallery walls. Technique: Hand-colored lithograph Maker: Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Switzerland, 1816 See less